Tag Archives: Emergencies at Weddings

This past weekend Lakeville Pavilion, a very popular wedding venue in Foxboro, MA, not far from Gillette Stadium home to the NE Patriots, where we have celebrated many weddings, had a massive fire during a wedding, destroying the venue, and subsequently the dreams and plans of many, many couples for this season and next. Our hearts go out to all who have been touched by this tragedy.

So, what would you do, if a tragedy like, death, fire, accident, sudden hospitalization, or something similar occurred to you or your family? As wedding officiants, we have unfortunately shared in a few of these tragic experiences and they are emotionally devastating to the couple and their families. Naturally, most people do not like to speak about these events, however we feel it worth noting.

First, and gratefully, the statics for these incidents occurring are very rare. Second, from our experience, these tragedies have been the opportunity for a couple and their families, to put their best foot forward. It did not matter whether the families were rich or poor, sophisticated and educated or not, across the board, the families stepped up to the plate and made the most sincere and genuine contribution to ease the pain, as best as they possibly could, during these sudden and tragic times. These are not the times to blame any one for anything. These are times for compassion and comfort, for understanding and sensitivity. These are the times for love to be the profound healing presence necessary in the life of the couple, the families and the guests. Each circumstance is different and is experienced differently by each person involved. We personally feel it is essential to come together and not to isolate; others want to be present and supportive to those hurt by these events. We believe people are good and want to be helpful. In these sad times, please, come together with family and close friends, some food, not too much wine, and have time together. Allow the pace to slow down to be together, to listen and consult with each other in order to make the best decisions given the circumstances. Please, forget past family resentments, they are useless. Breath. Let the silly, foolish and sometimes thoughtless things people say, in their feeble attempts to ease your pain, go. If you pray, invite your higher power into the situation. No one wishes a tragedy on anyone, least of all a bridal couple days or hours before or after their wedding, however, if unfortunately the moment arises, watch how the power, spirit and sensitivity of love, healing and compassion rises from the hearts of good men, women and children, who care, love and are instruments of peace.